Slater excited for generation next

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Storm fans will get a glimpse of the future on Saturday night when a new Smith runs around AAMI Park in the No.9 jersey.

Brandon Smith will replace his namesake and captain at hooker when Melbourne take on Manly/

Cameron Smith is serving a one game suspension and while it is impossible to fully cover the loss of arguably the greatest player to ever lace up a pair of boots, it presents an exciting opportunity for the 21-year-old.

Brandon has played seven games so far this season coming off the bench as an impact player.

This weekend though he has a chance at dummy half and his teammates are confident he will be ready to take it with both hands.

"It is a challenge obviously without Cam and we lose Sam Kasiano for a week as well," Billy Slater said.

"But we are really excited about the opportunity for Brandon Smith to play more minutes at dummy half which his preferred position.

"He is a totally different number nine to Cam but we are looking forward to giving him more minutes around the ball."